The most widespread common name is morning glories, but there are also species in related genera bearing the same common name. Those formerly separated in Calonyction[5] (Greek καλόςkalós "good" and νύξ, νυκτόςnúx, nuktós, "night") are called moonflowers.[4] The generic name is derived from the Greekἴψ, ἰπός (íps, ipós), meaning "woodworm", and ὅμοιος (hómoios), meaning "resembling." It refers to their twining habit.[6] The genus occurs throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, and comprises annual and perennialherbaceous plants, lianas, shrubs and small trees; most of the species are twining climbing plants.

Though most often noted as "recreational" drugs, the lysergamides are also of medical importance. Ergonovine enhances the action of oxytocin, used to still post partum bleeding. Ergine induces drowsiness and a relaxed state and might be useful in treating anxiety disorder. Whether Ipomoea species are a useful source of these compounds remains to be determined. In any case, in some jurisdictions certain Ipomoea are regulated, e.g. by the Louisiana State Act 159 which bans cultivation of I. violacea except for ornamental purposes.